Suspicious 4-alarm fire strikes Bridgewater buildings

Tuesday

Jul 1, 2014 at 4:56 AMJul 1, 2014 at 9:42 PM

A four-alarm fire early Tuesday engulfed and destroyed several vacant structures, including a 10-unit apartment building and a duplex home on Route 18. A firefighter was taken to Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital with a minor injury.

BRIDGEWATER -- A four-alarm fire at 1 a.m. Tuesday engulfed and destroyed several vacant structures, including a 10-unit apartment building and a duplex home on Route 18.

One firefighter was taken to Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital with a minor leg injury.

Fire Chief George Rogers said that both structures at 78 Broad St. were vacant.

"We arrived and (found) a big fire, including collapses. We had several other exposures, an old restaurant and a 2-1/2 story (structure)," he said, adding that one firefigher had been injured.

The source of the fire was being probed even as the flames were being brought under control.

"There was an investigation here last week for a small fire in the building... and the police from Bridgewater are on the scene helping us with an investigation along with the State Fire Marshal's office," Rogers said.

Although the majority of the flames have been subdued, traffic is being diverted from the area. The local traffic situation may be difficult through the morning hours.